How to Make a Living as a Translator or Interpreter

When I introduce myself as an interpreter or translator, it's pretty common for others to ask how I find my job. It's challenging to put into words because, while being a professional linguist frequently ranks as one of the top careers to work from home or work online, defining what we do as a “job” or a “position” is difficult. Unlike typical professions, translating and interpreting are more about assignments, or jobs (plural) than fixed positions. So, how do I get my jobs, or how do translators and interpreters usually make a living? Here's my answer as a professional translator and interpreter.

Performance

Performance is paramount in the interpreting world. Unlike many other professions, interpreting is a show-and-tell business where your audience directly witnesses your skills. If they like what they see, they may approach you after your session and ask for your business card. This has happened to me numerous times. Sometimes, I even find myself with a small queue of prospective clients. This immediate feedback loop is unique to interpreting and can be a powerful tool for building your client base.

However, it’s crucial to remain ethical. If the job comes from a colleague referral or an agency, don’t give out your contact information without their consent. It’s important to respect the source of your opportunities and maintain professional integrity.

Unlike many other professions, interpreting is a show-and-tell business

Word-of-Mouth

Maintaining good relationships with your clientele and colleagues carries significant weight. The power of word-of-mouth cannot be overstated in the interpreting and translating business. Satisfied clients will naturally refer you to others, and colleagues who appreciate your professionalism will do the same.

Keeping a list of colleague referrals can be invaluable when you're unavailable or cannot provide the needed services. This network can act as a support system, ensuring that your clients always have access to high-quality services, even if you’re not available. Your clients and colleagues will appreciate your efforts to look out for them, and they’ll be more inclined to refer businesses to you when their clients need a good interpreter or when your clients need your services again.

Alum Circles

Attending a strong interpreting training school or program can provide one of the best resources available to a professional interpreter. During your training, your skills will improve immensely, and you'll witness other rising stars' performances and understand the industry benchmarks. Most importantly, you’ll have a solid referral circle that you can rely on for jobs after graduation.

For example, I belong to both MIIS (Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey) and SISU (Shanghai International Studies University) alum circles. These programs are known for their rigorous training and produce many well-respected professionals in the industry. I’m happy to refer any of my clients to my network without any additional cost. This mutual support system helps ensure that everyone in the network benefits and grows.

Working Full Time In-House

For language professionals, an in-house job means you are working directly for a specific organization or company rather than freelancing or working for an agency. For my language pair (Chinese – English), most full-time in-house jobs are in China, but there are a few others scattered around the world. Most of these jobs are great for someone starting out. You’ll gain valuable experience quickly and get to know key clients and colleagues, who will exchange valuable resources in the future.

Working in-house can provide a stable income and a wealth of experience. You’ll be exposed to a variety of tasks and challenges, which can help you hone your skills rapidly. Moreover, the connections you make while working in-house can be invaluable when you decide to go freelance or take on more independent assignments.

Getting Certified

Certification is another important channel to gain industry recognition and clientele. Once certified, your name will be listed on the certifying body’s list of certified interpreters and translators, and prospective clients will refer to this list to find you.

Certification programs vary by country and specialty. In the United States, the most common ones include NCSC (National Center for State Courts) court interpreting certifications for court interpreters and American Translators Association (ATA) certification for translators. The Spanish court interpreters may also pass Federal Court Interpreter Exam administered by the United States Courts. These credentials demonstrate your competence and professionalism, making it easier for clients to trust and hire you.

Professional Organizations

Joining a professional organization can help you get to know others in the same industry. Their experiences will help you grow as a professional interpreter. Most importantly, you can help each other by providing referrals. There are many local and national organizations in the industry with the largest being ATA (American Translators Association). For court interpreters, we have NAJIT (National Association of Judiciary Interpreters & Translators). Each state and localities also have their own organizations. Texas court interpreters have TAJIT (Texas Association of Judiciary Interpreters & Translators), and there is MITA (Metroplex Interpreters and Translators Association) for interpreters and translators based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Professional organizations often offer resources such as continuing education, industry news, and networking events. They can also provide a sense of community and support, which is especially valuable in a field where many professionals work independently. Being part of such an organization can enhance your credibility and open up new opportunities.

Private, For-Profit Networks

Sites like proz.com and translatorcafe.com are great for professional translators and interpreters. These professional networking sites cater specifically to translators and interpreters, providing job listings, forums, and other resources tailored to the industry. They can be excellent platforms for finding work and connecting with clients who understand the value of professional language services.

However, I personally avoid non-industry sites like Fiverr or Upwork, as most of these sites do not understand professional language service industry norms, making it harder to communicate your value to prospective clients.

Networking

Knowing your clients and networking within their communities is crucial. Understanding their needs and pain points allows you to provide the best solutions. This not only builds your reputation but also ensures a steady stream of assignments.

Networking isn’t just about meeting people; it’s about building relationships and trust. Attend industry conferences, join relevant online groups, and participate in community events. The more you engage with your target audience, the better you’ll understand their needs and how you can help them. This proactive approach can lead to long-term client relationships and repeat business.

Conclusion

Finding work as a translator or interpreter is not about landing a traditional job but about building a network and continuously improving your skills. Performance, word-of-mouth, alum circles, in-house positions, certifications, professional organizations and effective networking are all essential channels to explore. By leveraging these avenues, you can establish a successful and fulfilling career in translation and interpreting.

FAQs

1. How can I start my career as a translator or interpreter?

• There are many ways to start your career. While most conference interpreters began with rigorous training in top university programs, others get trained “on the job” through entry-level full-time positions or freelance on the side of a full-time job.

• I began my career working full-time in-house at TransN. Despite it being one of the most challenging year in my profession, it was also incredibly rewarding. My professional skills grew exponentially, and my position in the company significantly expanded my network within the industry.

• Having a positive attitude and embracing challenges are crucial for growth and success in this field. You need to be a self-disciplined self-starter because, most of the time, you're “going at it” alone without much professional support.

2. Is certification necessary to work as a translator or interpreter?

• While not always mandatory, certification significantly boosts your credibility and helps attract clients. In the US market, focusing on court interpreting certifications for interpreting and translating for courts and ATA certification for translation is recommended.

3. Can I work from home as a translator or interpreter?

• Yes, almost all Chinese translators and interpreters base their works from home, especially with advancements in technology and remote communication tools.

4. How important is networking in this field?

• Networking is crucial. Building relationships with clients and colleagues can lead to more job opportunities and professional growth.

5. Are there specific online platforms recommended for finding jobs?

• Professional platforms like proz.com and translatorcafe.com are recommended.

6. What should a professional interpreter avoid when taking a job?

• Avoid taking a job if you are unsure you can provide a satisfactory performance. There are many seemingly “easy” jobs with hidden challenges such as difficult terms and unrealistic client requirements. Knowing when to say “no” is crucial to avoid unnecessary stress and potential damage to your reputation.